Dayton bands celebrate the season with concerts, events

Community Reports

Published 6:20 am, Monday, December 2, 2013

The month of December ushers in one of the busiest times for the Dayton ISD band programs.

Starting off with the Mighty Bronco Band’s participation in the Liberty Christmas Parade on Tuesday, Dec. 3, the band will then be joined by the Wilson Junior High Pony Band at the Dayton Christmas Parade on Thursday, Dec. 5.

The tuba and euphonium ensemble, which Head Band Director Gus Figeac affectionately calls “The Tuba Fours,” begins its holiday performance schedule at the Tuba Christmas Celebration in Brenham on Friday, Dec. 6. This group will also be present as Dayton Mayor Felix Skarpa lights the town’s Christmas tree Saturday, Dec. 7, at around 6:15 p.m.

The group will also provide caroling at numerous facilities including the Dayton Nursing Home, Dayton ISD and a few surprise visits. The group concludes their schedule at the Tuba Christmas Celebration in The Woodlands on Saturday, Dec. 21. Members of the Wilson Junior High will be auditioning at the Region X All-Region Band Auditions on Saturday, Dec. 7, and the DHS members on Saturday, Dec. 14, both taking place at Lumberton High School.

The bands’ Christmas Concerts are scheduled for Monday, Dec. 16, featuring the Mighty Bronco Band’s Symphonic Band, Jazz Band, Percussion Ensemble and guest solo performances by Ms. Anne Marie Smesny, DHS choir director, and Figeac. This concert will be at the Dayton Community Center starting at 6:30 p.m. and is open to the public; admission is free.

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The combined Nottingham Middle School and Wilson Junior High concert is on Thursday, Dec. 16, and will be held at the Woodrow Wilson Junior High Gym starting at 6:30 p.m.; everyone is invited.

“The Dayton ISD band staff and members look forward to seeing you at any or all of these events and extend their wishes for a joyous and blessed Christmas,” said Gus Figeac by email. He also asked to extend a personal thank you to the Dayton ISD administration, especially Superintendent Dr. Jessica Johnson and Principal Mr. Travis Young, for their continued support; the City of Dayton and Mayor Skarpa; and Ms. Amanda Wilson, Dayton Community Center Director, and her staff for hosting the concerts.